Author: Andy Williams

Tesla has introduced new features aimed at improving safety and functionality for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, particularly in robotaxi mode, including an active microphone-based siren detection system and a specialized windshield wiper cleaning routine to ensure unobstructed camera views. In a video demonstration shared after the launch of Tesla’s Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, a driverless Model Y is seen autonomously pulling over for an approaching ambulance. The vehicle’s microphones detected the siren before the passengers did, enabling the car to yield and then resume its route. “Sound detection also allows Robotaxi to automatically detect and appropriately react to…

Tesla’s exclusive use of 4680-format cylindrical batteries is set to end as LG Energy Solution has signed a major supply contract with China’s largest car exporter, Chery Automobile, to equip its premium electric vehicles with the next-generation cells. The six-year agreement, valued at $730 million, will see LG deliver 8 GWh of 46-series cylindrical battery cells starting in early 2026. The deal marks a key expansion for the battery format originally championed by Tesla for its potential to reduce production costs and improve energy density. Elon Musk unveiled the 4680 battery design at Tesla’s Battery Day in 2020, claiming it…

The 2026 Nissan LEAF marks the most significant transformation in the model’s history, evolving from a compact hatchback into a modern, SUV-inspired electric crossover. Now in its third generation, the all-new LEAF emphasizes greater efficiency, advanced technology, and improved everyday practicality—positioning itself as Nissan’s boldest effort yet to reclaim dominance in the mainstream EV market. With an estimated range of up to 488 kilometers and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, this next-gen LEAF offers a compelling package for EV buyers. At launch, the 2026 LEAF will be available in three trims—S+, SV+, and Platinum+—each powered by a 75-kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion…

Volkswagen has reached a global licensing agreement with Oppo to enhance data connectivity in its upcoming vehicle models, the automaker announced. The deal grants Volkswagen access to Oppo’s Standard Essential Patents (SEPs), paving the way for improved 5G capabilities in future smart cars. Oppo, known primarily for its smartphones and SuperVOOC fast-charging technology, also holds a strong portfolio in wireless communication. According to the company, it ranks eighth globally in terms of wireless connectivity IP, with its 5G technologies already deployed in more than 40 countries. “We are delighted to collaborate with Volkswagen through this patent licensing agreement,” said Vincent…

Tritium, a global manufacturer of EV charging infrastructure, has announced the European launch of its TRI-FLEX DC fast-charging platform ahead of its showcase at the 38th International Electric Vehicle Symposium & Exhibition (EVS38) in Gothenburg, Sweden, from June 15 to 18, 2025. The system has been developed to meet EU regulatory standards while providing grid-resilient, modular solutions for operators across the continent. The TRI-FLEX platform is designed to accommodate between two and 32 charging dispensers per hub, enabling up to 64 simultaneous charging points. Compatible with 100 kW, 200 kW, and 400 kW DC dispensers, the architecture supports phased deployments…

General Motors said Tuesday it will invest approximately $4 billion over the next two years at facilities in Michigan, Kansas, and Tennessee to expand production of gasoline-powered vehicles, reflecting a recalibration of its strategy amid softening electric vehicle (EV) demand. The automaker announced plans to launch production of gas-powered full-size SUVs and light-duty pickups at its Orion Assembly plant in Michigan in early 2027. The facility had previously been designated to produce electric trucks starting next year. GM’s shift raises questions about its earlier pledge to phase out gas-powered vehicles by 2035. The investment was welcomed by the White House.…

Swedish electric vehicle manufacturer Polestar will begin sales in France this year, aiming to make the country one of its top three European markets, the company’s local executive said, as it focuses on core regions amid global EV headwinds. The company, majority-owned by China’s Geely Holding, has shifted its attention back to Europe following pressure from tariffs, reduced demand, and funding constraints. France marks the automaker’s first new market since 2022, as its expansion efforts had slowed in recent years. Michael Lohscheller, Polestar CEO says: “We are very excited to bring our portfolio of performance EVs to France, one of…

Electrify America has launched pilot stations in the United States that allow electric vehicles equipped with either Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) or the Combined Charging System 1 (CCS1) to charge at the same stall, eliminating the need for an adapter. The two pilot locations—situated in Orlando, Florida, and Waterford, Connecticut—each feature three charging stalls, with each stall capable of charging two vehicles simultaneously. The new dispensers, built by Alpitronic, come with four cables: two for CCS1-equipped vehicles and two for those using the NACS connector. See also: Electrify America Reports 50% Growth in Charging Demand, Plans 30% Network…

XCharge North America, the U.S. subsidiary of EV charging provider XCHG Limited, said on Tuesday it has signed an exclusive agreement with Roady’s Truck Stops to supply electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment across more than 500 independently owned Roady’s franchise locations in the United States. Under the deal, XCharge NA becomes the sole provider of EV charging hardware and solutions for Roady’s vendor purchasing program, offering adaptable options for franchisees ranging from single-site operators to multi-location businesses. “Many of our members are small business owners, and we are committed to empowering them to operate their business in whatever way fits…

TIER IV has been chosen for a Japanese government project focused on advancing Level 4+ autonomous driving services and addressing local mobility challenges. The initiative will involve developing standards for high-level autonomy and creating an open dataset combining real-world and synthetic driving data. This dataset will be used to simulate diverse traffic scenarios to support the evaluation and performance testing of autonomous driving systems. TIER IV will work with consortium partners, including automotive manufacturers and academic institutions, to develop these standards and provide a comprehensive open dataset derived from Level 4+ test vehicles operating in and around Tokyo. The data…

Autonomous vehicle developer Nuro has begun public road testing in Las Vegas, marking a step forward in the company’s strategy to develop and license self-driving technology for broader commercial applications. The Silicon Valley-based firm said it has started testing its self-driving system, NuroDriver, along the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding urban streets. The company has operated a closed-course facility in the city since 2021, but this is its first deployment on public roads in the area. See also: Nuro Raises $106 Million in Series E as It Shifts Focus to Licensing Autonomous Driving Tech The tests will involve modified Toyota…

Kempower, a global leader in DC fast-charging solutions, has announced that Bhasker Kaushal will take over as President and CEO of the company on June 2, 2025. The current CEO, Tomi Ristimäki, will remain with the company until December 2025 in an advisory capacity to ensure a smooth leadership transition. Ristimäki, who joined Kempower in 2019 when the company was still in its startup phase, has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s global presence in the DC charging market. Under his leadership, Kempower has expanded its market share and positioned itself as a prominent player in the fast-charging…

Segway has introduced the Ninebot F3, an electric scooter equipped with a 1,000-watt brushless motor and a range of up to 44 miles (64 km), aimed at improving urban commuting. The new model is priced at $699.99 and is now available for purchase via Segway’s official Amazon store. The Ninebot F3 is powered by a high-torque motor capable of handling inclines of up to 20%, supported by a 477 Wh battery. Riders can expect a range of 25 miles (40 km) at speeds of 20 mph (32 kph), or up to 44 miles at 9 mph (14 kph), depending on…

Huawei has officially unveiled a new automotive brand, SAIC Shangjie, in partnership with state-owned automaker SAIC Motor (SHA: 600104), marking the latest expansion of its electric vehicle (EV) ambitions under its Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA) business. The Shangjie brand was introduced at a product launch event hosted by Huawei, with Richard Yu, managing director and chairman of Huawei’s terminal business group, announcing that the brand aims to launch its first model this fall. Shangjie becomes the fifth brand to operate under HIMA, joining Seres Group’s Aito, Chery’s Luxeed, BAIC Group’s Stelato, and JAC’s Maextro. See also: New Huawei-SAIC EV…

Kenworth Truck Co. has postponed the production of its hydrogen fuel cell electric T680 trucks, citing a lack of adequate hydrogen refueling infrastructure across North America, the company said. A revised production timeline has not yet been announced, as the company reassesses the commercial readiness of its zero-emission vehicles. “We’re waiting for the appropriate refueling infrastructure in the U.S.,” said Kenworth Chief Engineer Joe Adams. “We want to make sure the tractor unit is profitable.” See also: Paccar and Toyota Collaborate to Introduce Hydrogen-Fuelled Kenworth and Peterbilt Trucks in the US Kenworth, a subsidiary of Paccar, initially announced plans nearly…

Global electric vehicle (EV) sales climbed to 1.7 million units in March and reached 4.1 million for the first quarter of 2025, marking a 29% increase from the same period last year, according to new data from EV research group Rho Motion. The figures also represent a 40% surge in monthly sales compared to February, underlining the sector’s continued expansion despite policy turbulence and economic uncertainty. China remained the largest EV market globally, with sales rising 36% year-over-year to nearly 1 million vehicles in March. Europe followed with 22% growth for the quarter, buoyed by a strong performance in battery-electric…

Polish bus manufacturer Solaris has received an order for 81 electric buses from VR Sverige AB, to be deployed in the Stockholm region starting in the second quarter of 2026, the company said on Friday. The order involves the three-axle Urbino 15 LE electric model, designed for suburban and regional routes. The vehicles will be used under the management of VR Sverige AB, a subsidiary of Finland’s VR Group and one of Sweden’s key public transport operators. See also: Traktionssysteme Austria to Deliver 1,500 Electric Motors to Solaris Under Multi-Year Supply Deal This latest contract follows earlier collaborations between Solaris…

DeepRoute.ai, a leading provider of AI-driven mobility solutions, has unveiled its Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model at the 2025 Seoul Mobility Show, marking the company’s first appearance in South Korea. The debut highlights DeepRoute.ai’s strategic push into the global market and its commitment to advancing smart driving technologies for automakers worldwide. The VLA model is designed to enhance the capabilities of autonomous vehicles, offering versatility by supporting both camera-only and LiDAR-camera fusion configurations. It is also compatible with a variety of chip platforms, making it adaptable to different automakers’ needs. The model’s first integration is expected to launch in China in mid-2025,…

The European Union and China have agreed to reopen negotiations over the bloc’s punitive tariffs on electric vehicles imported from China, with discussions now centering on a potential agreement to impose minimum prices instead of levies. The shift in approach comes amid mounting global trade tensions, notably driven by U.S. tariff policies under former President Donald Trump. According to a report by Handelsblatt, EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic recently held talks with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, with both parties agreeing to explore alternatives to the current tariffs. See also: China, EU Discuss Strengthening Trade Ties Amid U.S. Tariff Moves…

Tesla Inc.’s longtime head of software, David Lau, is set to leave the electric vehicle maker, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. Lau, who joined Tesla in 2012, has played a key role in the company’s push to integrate software into nearly every aspect of its vehicle and operational experience. He reportedly informed his team of his decision to step down, though the report did not specify a reason for his departure. See also: Tesla’s Q1 2025 Deliveries Decline Amid Intensifying Competition and CEO Controversies During his tenure, Lau advanced through the company’s ranks, becoming Vice President of…